A computer simulation could help us better understand the evolution of movement in animals
Two-legged dinosaurs may have swung their tails as they crashed through the undergrowth – just like humans swing their arms – according to scientists who have modelled their movements in 3D at Harvard University.
Until now, it was widely believed that bipedal (two-legged) dinosaurs grew long tails to counterbalance the weight of their heads, and the tail was merely a rigid extension of the pelvis. But it is now thought that swinging their tails reduced the muscular effort required to propel themselves forwards, meaning they could run faster.